OK. So maybe you heard that we live in a small apartment. Do you really understand what small means in Japanese terms? Let me give you a clearer picture. We can have only one guest at a time for a meal…because that’s all our living room will hold. The width of our bedroom is such that Norman can touch both walls at the same time by stretching out his arms. Half our belongings are in storage because there isn’t room for them…and compared to lots of people, we don’t have that much.

All of that to say this.

Even though it is small, we are having a great time here! When we talked about moving, Chloe was adamant. “I don’t want to leave! I’ve got friends here!” And they do. Right next door. Three elementary-aged boys have brought joy and fun to our kids. The most surprising thing is seeing our shy Melodie chasing one of them in a game of tag. God is amazing.

Besides that, our neighbors are friendly. The lady next door told me this morning, “I want to talk more to you.” (She also thinks I am so cool because of my white skin. I love Japan! She had a hard time believing Americans desire to be tan.)

On top of that, I am closer to my children (in more ways than one). In a bigger home, the kids can play or study out of my sight most of the day. Here, there isn’t that opportunity. So I notice them more, play with them more, and find more teachable moments.

Of course, with a husband who enjoys working with his hands, this place is a bit small. But somehow he manages to squeeze in a clamp table in the entrance way during his projects. It’s nice for him, too, to be within arm’s reach. The kids are spending more time with him, too, even getting to help him. Melodie told me this week, “I hope Dad likes people asking questions, because I’m asking him a lot of them!”

What small things can you thank God for this week? May my life be characterized by a thankful spirit. May yours be, too!